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© 2003 Columbia College Chicago
600 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605-1996
Telephone: 312-663-1600        

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EDITING CONCENTRATION COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

24-2401 Editing I 4 Cr. (previously known as Editing the Narrative Film I)
This course provides a basic narrative editing experience in three areas: developing information-handling skills to deal with large amounts of film and audio material, acquiring the means to apply ideas about that material in order to develop an authorial approach, and using digital, non-linear off-line video editing equipment for each student to edit their own filmic interpretation. Students receive critiques of their work after each project to determine the development of their proficiency of craft and creativity. Editing I is the first class in the Editing concentration and is required in order to take advanced courses. The fundamental skills established in this course provide the foundation for the work in Editing II.

Prerequisites: Film Production II

24-2402 Editing II 4 Cr. (previously known as Editing the Narrative Film II)
This course provides advanced narrative editing experience in three areas: developing information-handling skills to deal with large amounts of film and audio material, acquiring the means to apply ideas about that material to develop an authorial approach, and using digital, non-linear off-line video editing equipment for each student to edit their own filmic interpretation. This course builds out of the foundation of knowledge taught in Editing I. Projects grow with increasing complexity. Students receive critiques of their work after each project to determine the development of their proficiency of craft and creativity.

Prerequisites: Editing I

24-2403 Editing III (The Feature) 4 Cr. (previously known as Editing the Narrative Film III)
This course provides advanced narrative editing experience in three areas: developing information-handling skills to deal with large amounts of film and audio material, acquiring the means to apply ideas about that material to develop an authorial approach, and using digital, non-linear off-line video editing equipment for each student to edit their own filmic interpretation. This course builds out of the foundation of
knowledge taught in Editing the Narrative Film I. Projects grow with increasing complexity. Students receive critiques of their work after each project to determine the development of their proficiency of craft and creativity.

Prerequisites: Editing II

24-3406 Advanced Editing Seminar: Narrative  3 Cr
This course will provide an opportunity for advanced editing students to cut independent projects, advanced directing, and thesis projects in a classroom environment. This course will also provide editing students with a reel of their work for use in future endeavors.

Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor. Priority given to students in their last semester of study.

24-4420 Motion Graphics I   4 Cr. (previously known as Digital and Optical Effects I)
Compositing is one of the fastest growing areas in film post production. In this course, students will learn techniques to digitally integrate software and composite layers of images. Through the discussion of concepts and design, students will learn techniques to creatively use software tools to achieve dramatic and artistic effects. Students will be introduced to current software and concepts used for cutting edge motion graphics and compositing in motion pictures, television, commercials and music video. Example of
outside works will be presented and analyzed in class. Students will be encouraged to learn from each other's examples, problems, and solutions.

Prerequisites: Editing I and Completion of the Film/Video Core with grade of C or better.

24-4421 Motion Graphics II 4 Cr  (previously known as Digital and Optical Effects II)
This course is a continuation of Motion Graphics I. It is assumed that you already have a working knowledge of Adobe After Effects, Photoshop and Illustrator. Through the discussion of concepts,techniques, protocols, and hands-on projects, students will improve their design, compositing and animation craft. Additionally, students will rely upon the individual and collective imagination and creativity of the class
to complete their work.

This is a project driven class: working in groups, students will create and critique complex projects throughout the semester within challenging deadlines. Successful students will be encouraged and learn from each other's examples, problems, and solutions. Each student's work must exhibit detailed attention to craft. Examples of outside work will be presented and analyzed in class.Hands-on work will enable students to become proficient in current software and concepts used for cutting-edge motion graphics and compositing in motion pictures, television, commercials and music video.

Prerequisites: Motion Graphics I

24-4422 Motion Graphics III 3 Cr ((previously known as Digital and Optical Effects III)
Students will learn complex film and video compositing focusing on mastering design and the use of high end two-dimensional software. This course is designed to create high-end digital and optical effects through collaboration with advanced animators and cinematographers.

Prerequisites: Motion Graphics II and Instructor's Approval

24-4407 Advanced Editing Seminar: Digital Optical Effects, Motion Graphics 3 Cr
This course will provide an opportunity for advanced digital optical effects students to create independent projects in a classroom environment. This course will also provide digital optical effects students with a reel of their work for use in future endeavors.

Prerequisites: Motion Graphics III

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24-4403 Editing the Documentary 4 Cr.
This course provides documentary editing experience in three areas: developing information-handling systems to deal with large amounts of filmic material, acquiring the means to apply ideas about that material in order to develop a comprehensive authorial approach, and using digital, non-linear off-line video editing equipment for each student to edit their own filmic interpretation from a variety of source material.

Prerequisites: Editing I and Completion of the Film/Video Core with grade of C or better.

24-4404 Editing the Commercial 4 Cr.
This class will emphasize editing and post-production producing under tight deadlines. Students will be required to edit commercials, trailers, and PSA's completing a project every two weeks. Work will be assigned to teams who will divide the various tasks necessary to complete each project. Students will also act as the post-production supervisor which will require them to contract with students working in other advanced digital classes.

Prerequisites: Editing I and Completion of the Film/Video Core with grade of C or better.

24-4427 Advanced Editing: The Postproduction Supervisor 3 Cr.
Class is designed for the advanced editing student who is working as a postproduction producer. Content emphasizes pre-production decisions necessary for postproduction: scheduling, budgeting, hiring personnel, and allocating facilities and equipment. Class explores various national and international distribution requirements. Students learn strategies for communicating with third party vendors including sound, labs, and postproduction houses. Class uses feature length film as model.

Prerequisite: Editing I and Completion of the Film/Video Core with grade of C or better.

24-4425 The Assistant Editor 3 Cr
This course is designed to give students thorough training in all the protocols for being an editing assistant. The primary focus of the class will be on the handling of 16 and 35mm film elements along with use of the equipment necessary for finishing a project on film using uprights, flatbeds, gang synchs etc. Students will learn the proper practices and procedures for working with the lab, organizing materials, logging, snyching, and coding of film and mag stock in preparation for editing. Several exercises will teach the
fundamentals, and the final project will be to cut a short feature length film.

Prerequisite: Editing I and Completion of the Film/Video Core with grade of C or better.

24-4429 Experimental Editing 3 Cr
This course will provide alternative editing strategies in the following areas: Developing experimental cutting innovations and problem solving techniques for narrative and non-narrative expression and the incorporation of "found" footage in both documentaries and narrative projects, using non-linear editing. Experimental Editing surveys the techniques of experimental editing, such as Eisenstein's Montage Editing,
Surrealism, Jump Cuts and the French New Wave,Video Art, Assemblage Films, MTV and the Music Video. Through a series of exercises, students learn alternative editing strategies for both narrative and non-narrative work. Students cut three short projects based upon experimental tradition and a long final project. Students receive in-class and written critiques examining the development of their technique after each editing exercise. Students edit a long final project using their choice of editing strategy covered in class. Projects develop with increasing complexity and enable students to apply their ideas about experimental film to their material in order to develop their own style and aesthetic.

Prerequisite: Editing I and Completion of the Film/Video Core with grade of C or better.

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24-4428 Advanced Editing: Avid Media/Film Composer 4 Cr.
This course provides an advanced editing experience in three areas: Developing information handling skills to deal with large amounts of film and audio material, acquiring the means to apply that knowledge, and using Avid Media/Film Composer equipment for each student to complete their assigned projects.Through a
series of exercises, students learn the organizational skills necessary to edit projects on the Avid Media/Film Composer and advanced knowledge of post-production protocols in digital editing. Specific skills include video finishing skills with 30 fps projects, off-line editing, developing Edit Decision Lists (EDLs) and on-line editing. Other skills include film finishing skills with 24 fps projects, keycode and logging, syncing footage, off-line editing at 24 fps and generating keycode lists for conforming. Students receive critiques of their work after each project to determine the development of their proficiency of craft and creativity. The course will culminate with the editing of a film project from off-line to online and the generation of a keycode cutlist.

Prerequisites: Application with the instructor. Applicants must have a film project that they are ready to edit.

24-4424 On-Line Workshop for Editors 1 Cr.
An intensive two-day seminar in on-line editing. Students will perform on-line edits and learn the basic operation of the Discreet Logic edit*.

Prerequisites: Editing II

24-4422 Photoshop Workshop for Editors 1 Cr
An intensive two-day seminar in Photoshop, this course will assist editing students in video finishing. Photoshop can be used as a tool for graphics production for film and video. Students will learn titling, alpha channels, mattes, etc. This course is designed for beginning and intermediate Photoshop users.

Prerequisites: Editing I

24-4423 Graphic Design Workshop for Editors 1 Cr
An intensive two-day seminar in graphic design. The focus will be on layouts, typography, color theory, motion graphics, along with trends in design. Students will refine their graphic design in order to improve the presentation of their film and video work. This course will be taught by graphic design specialists. Work will be created and critiqued in the workshop.

Prerequisites: Motion Graphics I

Internships

24-6030 Internship Film & Video Cr. Variable
Internships provide advanced students with an opportunity to gain work experience in an area of concentration or interest while receiving academic credit toward their degrees.

Prerequisites: Students should have 20 credit hours completed in the Editing Concentration before applying for an internship.

Independent Projects

24-6492-98 Independent Project: Film & Video Post-Production 1-2 credits
An independent project is designed by the students, with the approval of a supervising faculty member, to study an area that is not presently available in the curriculum. Prior to registration, the students must submit a written proposal that outlines the project. This project would be appropriate for students who are
working on post-production of a film or video, or a multimedia project.

Prerequisite: Editing I and Permission of the Area Coordinator

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TYPES OF EDITING INDEPENDENT PROJECTS:

Pre-Postproduction (24-6492) 1-2 credits
Provides the independent editor an opportunity to log and organize their project in preparation for editing.

Narrative short (24-6493) 1-2 credits
Provides the independent editor or independent filmmaker an opportunity to edit a short narrative film.

Documentary Short (24-6494) 1-2 credits
Provides the independent editor or independent filmmaker an opportunity to edit a short documentary film.

Experimental Short (24-6495) 1-2 credits
Provides the independent editor or independent filmmaker an opportunity to edit a short experimental film.

Motion Graphic/Special Effects (24-6496) 1-2 credits
Provides the independent editor or independent filmmaker an opportunity to create a motion graphics or special effects for a short film.

Music Video (24-6497) 1-2 credits
Provides the independent editor or independent filmmaker an opportunity to edit a music video.

Director's/ Editor's Reel (24-6798) 1-2credits
Provides the independent editor or independent filmmaker an opportunity to edit a reel of their work.
These projects, which are open to editing students, are applied for through the Producing Concentration:

Postproduction/Distribution & Marketing Strategy (24-9075) 1-2 credits
Postproduction supervision and release strategy.
Minimum Expected Outcome: Completed film and/or tape ready for release. A realistic and executable marketing and distribution strategy.
This project is applied for through application to the Producing Concentration.

Independent Project: Semester in Los Angeles (24-9076) 4 cr.
Intensive multi-element project customized to student's interests. In general, each project must complete the following elements: case study: studio analysis; daily reports based on industry dailies, calling and networking with industry professionals; five pitch sessions; a minimum on-site industry observation and analysis (internship is optional. This project is applied for through application to the Producing
Concentration.


More Suggested Courses for Editing Students:

24-4910 Multimedia Techniques: Digital Production for the Internet 4 cr.
Students learn how to combine their existing skills and develop new ones in digital video production, computer animation, image manipulation, and digital editing. In this project-oriented class students learn to synthesize several media elements on a computer to produce an original work for display on the Internet. Instruction emphasizes basic programming techniques as well as artistic and commercial applications of multimedia.

Prerequisite: 24-2910 Production III (B or better) and completion of the Film and Video core (C or better)

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24-4920 Production IV: Avid XPress 4 cr.
The technical focus of this production class is on the AVID media composer and advanced, electronic production equipment. Students learn sophisticated nonlinear digital editing including digitizing, titling, audio mixing, and special effects. Class culiminates in a personal, 5-minute project that each student develops from script to final on-line edit. Prerequisites: Editing the Narrative I or Production III Permission of
Instructor

24-2101 Postproduction Audio I 4 cr.
The techniques of digital sampling (i.e. the storage, manipulation, and playback of sound effects using a computer) have become an important tool of the contemporary filmmaker. This course will explore the concepts of digital storage and processing of sound and methods of creating and manipulating sound using a microcomputer. Students will progress through a series of production exercises that allow them to gain
useful practical experience in the creation of a film sound track.

Prerequisite: FilmProduction II

24-2102 Postproduction Audio II 4 cr.
A concentrated workshop on post-production sound gathering and editing techniques which implements the methods of music editing, recording sound effects and special sounds, and creating images with music concrete, the course will also focus on the helping the students to visualize the track building process.

Prerequisite: 24-1102 Film Production II

24-3120 Preparation for the Audio Mix 4 cr.
Course offers in-depth study of the art of mixing the final sound track for visual mediums. Both linear and nonlinear systems are employed, teaching students proper applications. Students receive group and one-on-one instruction and are required to use extensive out-of-class lab time. Outside projects as well as those created within the department give students hours of hands-on experience and exposure to a variety of techniques.

Prerequisite: 24-2101 Postproduction Audio I, 24-3122 Audio for the Visual Medium II, permission of instructor

24-1100 Visual Audio 4 cr.
Theory of the audio impact on visual images is explored in this beginning sound for film class. Students develop skills and gain understanding through demonstration and creation of their works. Class discusses the completion and delivery of entire soundtrack to the viewer.

24-1101 Film and Video Sound 4 cr.
Course introduces students to theory and techniques of sound recording as applied to the film and video mediums. Students learn to record and edit voice and sound effects. Course examines the theory behind advanced motion picture sound, sync systems, and digital multi-track recording systems.

Prerequisite: 24-1010 Film Production I (C or better)

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24-2104 Music for Film and Video 3 cr.
Students are introduced to elements of music and ways in which these elements may be used to create a musical style that enhances the visual statement. Course emphasizes understanding the function of the score and how it relates to texture, color, and drama in music. Students explore their creativity using the tools available, work on projects of increasing complexity, and complete a score for their own film or video as a final project. Listening skills, music vocabulary, and business and legal aspects of the profession are
also studied.

Prerequisite: Completion of Film and Video core (C or better)

24-3120 Preparation for the Audio Mix 4 cr.
Course offers in-depth study of the art of mixing the final sound track for visual mediums. Both linear and nonlinear systems are employed, teaching students proper applications. Students receive group and one-on-one instruction and are required to use extensive out-of-class lab time. Outside projects as well as those created within the department give students hours of hands-on experience and exposure to a variety of techniques.

Prerequisite: 24-2101 Postproduction Audio I, 24-3122 Audio for the Visual Medium II, permission of instructor

24-3122 Audio for the Visual Medium II 4 cr.
Course is intended for advanced students who wish to gain more insight and experience in preparing and mixing sound tracks for film. Students work in teams to complete class projects during additional weekly lab times.

Prerequisite: 24-3120 Postproduction Audio II

24-2203 Optical Printing I 3 cr.
Course serves as a general introduction to the optical printer and its capabilities, emphasizing the basic operation of a J-K printer. Exercises involve control of focal techniques, exposure, time manipulation, superimposition, fades and dissolves, high contrast processing, mattes and countermattes for wipes and insets, blow-up and reduction, color adjustment, combination, and isolation.

Prerequisite: 24-1010 Film production I (C or better)

24-2204 Visual Effects 3 cr.
Through practical hands-on application, students learn methodology of visual effects production. Students acquire general knowledge of a variety of skills needed to effectively produce and direct a visual effects sequence.

Prerequisite: 24-2202 Camera Seminar I and 24-1200 Lighting I

24-2206 Telecine 3 cr.
Students acquire a working knowledge of the aesthetics and technical aspects of the film-to-tape transfer process known as telecine. Content addresses theory and application of color correction, image control, and manipulation techniques. Principles of color theory and the tools available to filmmakers engaged in the processes of electronic media and image manipulation are explored through lecture, interactive computer
exercises, and hands-on telecine experience.

Prerequisite: 24-3202 Special Studies in Cinematography I

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24-2801 Documentary I   3 cr.
Course explores wide variety of styles and techniques used in documentary filmmaking from the first films made out-of-doors in the early years of cinema, through the documentaries of today. Students explore a broad range of classical and innovative approaches and discuss television documentaries, cinema verite, and re-enacted cinema.

Prerequisite: 24-1102 Film Production II

24-2910 Production III 4 cr.
Project-oriented course introduces filmmakers to portable video and digital production techniques. Students learn videography, nonlinear digital editing, and the basics of electronic recording. Projects are theme-based and center around several non-narrative, alternative forms, including music videos, documentary, diary, and other experimental approaches.

Prerequisite: 24-1102 Film Production II

24-2201 Image Design for Cinema 3 cr.
Class examines issues of visual communication and design of the cinematographic image. Through lectures, practical assignments, and critiques, students refine their ability use images to see, conceive, and communicate most effecitively. They also develop critical thinking necessary for filmmakers when creating the visual concept of the story.

Prerequisite: 24-1010 Film Production II and 24-1510 Aesthetics of Film and Video (both C or better)

24-2301 Directing I 6 cr.
Course begins study of the basic relationship between actor, text, and director, then expands to include directorial use of storyboards, camera plots, brackets, and shooting scripts as tools for camera placement. Emphasis is on development of director's camera placement and breakdowns, beat analysis, rehearsal techniques, and casting.

Prerequisite: Completion of Film and Video core (C or better)

24-2710 Screenwriting II: Writing the Feature Film 3 cr.
Course teaches students to produce longer and more complex screenplays; facilitates a deeper understanding of the screenwriting process; and enables students to develop character, story, and linear structure. Students master systematic work habits in order to fully develop the screenplay, from initial idea to completed script. Course also provides students with the opportunity for consistent critique of their screenwriting.

Prerequisite: 24-1710 Screenwriting I (B or better)

Special Topics: Avid Seminar 1 cr
An intensive two day workshop on the Avid. Offered to film students through the Television Department, students will receive hands on experience on the Avid.

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